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Thursday, March 31, 2011

"Hmmm" you may think to yourself..."Who on earth are The Brothers?" Well....

FAMILY FORCE 5. Yep. Back in the 90's, Solomon, Jacob, and Joshua, a.k.a Soul Glow Activator, Crouton, and Fatty had a little boy band called, "The Brothers". They released two albums, "Fact And Reality" (1994) and "RPM" (1995). I can't find much info on their time as a boy band, but I did find some videos they made.

So if you're a FF5 fan, prepare to laugh. Or enjoy.

Their music video, called "Make My House A Home":

Another music video! Lol I LOVE this one....totally Family Force 5! Haha!

A song from "Fact And Reality" featuring some very high vocals and two bowl haircuts!

I thought this was pretty cool! I'm not exactly a fan of FF5, but I thought this was awesome!

Monday, March 28, 2011

Who doesn't like to laugh? Anyone? I know I do, and I have found some really funny Christian videos online, and I thought I'd share them with you. Be sure to read my post below this one, as there is a question I'd like to hear your feedback on. THANKS!

1. "Jesus Is My Friend" by Sonseed.

Oh these poor guys. It was the 70's though, so I guess that explains things.

2. "Baby" by Justin Bieber Parody - Jesus!

This video never fails to crack me up. The lyrics, the dance moves....the dude eating the banana...it's just funny. They did a good job changing the lyrics though!

We are going to be in our Annual Holiness Convention this week, and my Grandma and Aunt are coming, so I probably won't be able to blog much, if anything at all. I'm sorry! You could read all my other posts..... :P

Well, anyway, I'll probably be back on Friday or Saturday. I've been thinking of doing a short fiction story in four parts on the blog. Would you guys like that or not? Leave me some feedback!

Friday, March 25, 2011

I just recently purchased the FM Static Trilogy, "3 Out Of 4 Ain't Bad"! This 3 disc collection is of FM Static cd's they have put out, featuring "What Are You Waiting For?", "Critically Ashamed", and "Dear Diary". I plan to review all three, and what better way to start things of with the first cd, "What Are You Waiting For?".

FM Static kicks things off with "Three Days Later", which is a fun song about a girl he can't take his mind off. It's funny, all the FM Static cd's are like Trevor McNevan's high school sagas. This cd is almost like his Freshman year, discovering God and relationships. Not much in the way of spirituality in this song, but hey, we all need to hear a fun song every once in a while. "Three Days Later" has a fun pop/punk vibe, and is just one of those songs that's fun to sing along with!

"Crazy Mary" brings some depth to the album, and is a song for a hurting friend. I really like this song, and it's one of my favorites on the album. Trevor sings of "teaching her how to walk away" when she feels like running, and this is a very positive song with a message of trying to help a friend in need. "Crazy Mary" features some great music, and I appreciate a song that carries such an important message without taking away from the "fun" aspect of the album.

Third up is "Something To Believe In", is punk all the way. Here's where the "finding God" aspect of the album comes in. "Something To Believe In" describes the confusion we can feel as we try to sort out our beliefs for ourselves, and cement that true relationship with song. I enjoy the music very much, and I'm sure every teenager can relate to the message in this song.

"Definitely Maybe" is probably the first FM Static song I had heard. We're back to the romantic relationship aspect of the album, but Trevor manages to keep the "cheesy" aspect out, and the fun lyrics people can relate to. Who hasn't liked a person, but that person was in a relationship with someone who didn't care about them? This song is funny,yet ,makes a point, and has that awesome punk/pop sound FM Static is famous for. WIN!

"Donna" is the next track, and brings punk, punk, and more punk! It's another fun song, with a special meaning of finding who we are. "Donna" is another relationship song as well, and Trevor addresses the song to her...or rather, Trevor's "alter ego". :P Not much depth, but another fun song to enjoy!

Halfway through the album now, we hit "All The Days". I noticed this album seems kind of short, but it really isn't at about 40 minutes. Maybe it's because of all the fast songs? Hmmm.... but back to the song! It's sort of an ode to Freshman year, and the beginning of SUMMER! However, it takes the time to remind us to remember the important times in our lives, and also, to look ahead! It's very much a fun song, and I love the music! What gets better than that?

"Hold Me Twice" reverts back to Freshman Year. This song brings a bit of electronic vibes to the punk pop aspect of FM Static. Trevor speaks of himself as "the loser" who likes "that girl". But she doesn't notice him...but so he thinks. Turns out, SHE HAS! Then they meet....then she moves....but he wrote her a letter! I just find myself laughing at the "awkwardness" portrayed in this song.

Yeah! "The Notion" has a fun beat, one of my favorites musically on this album. The lyrics are...once...again: girls, school, music, and having fun. There isn't a whole lot spiritually on this album, but it makes for fun listening.

"October" is the 8th fast song on this album. "Crazy Mary" is really the only "slower track". But anyway....can you guess what this song is about......GIRLS! AND TREVOR'S ALTER EGO BEING AWKWARD! Lol, this album is fun, so why can't I have fun with my review? Apparently this girl awkward-trevor's-alter-ego really liked, but she was too cool. Now she's a model, and has been in magazines, and apparently has a pretty good career. The song in a nutshell.

Next to last is "My First Stereo"....this song is straight up hilarious. HAAA-LAR-I-OUS! It's an ode to Trevor's first stereo. When he starts the song off, it sounds like a serious song to God, or a really important person, but then he launches into this song about his stereo. The lyrics to the chorus: Everyone wants, everyone needs, Everyone hurts sometimes like me,It never rejects me, always accepts me,Nothing can compete with my first stereo! HA!

Finally, there is a hidden track. The only slow song on the album, is....about...GIRLS! What is Trevor's Freshman in High School alter ego doing in a club spinning records? Aren't 14 year olds a little young to be "in da' club"? Maybe it was a Fellowship of Christian Athletes club. Ha..."Hey Now, Hey Now a yow ow ow...." (Trevor sounds a lot cooler when he sings that)

Ok, I had to have fun with this album. "What Are You Waiting For" is just so upbeat and fun, you have a hard time trying to be serious in a review. If you are in high school, like early Hawk Nelson music, or just pop/punk in general, be sure to pick up the Trilogy at your local Christian Bookstore, iTunes or Zune Marketplace.

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Welcome to the second segment of New Bands YOU Should Know! First off, I'd like to start with.....

SHINE BRIGHT BABY!

I saw these guys on the roster for Creation NE 2011, and immediately checked them out. They're a new indie Alternative Rock band from Ohio, and they sound promising. I suppose if I had to compare them with a band, I'd say Paramore or maybe a punkier sounding BarlowGirl. They released an album independently on May 22, 2009. "The Heart And It's Hope" sounds pretty good, and you can read my review of it here, and scroll down to the review section. If you visit their Pure Volume page, you can download free an acoustic version of "Deadbolt". It's a very good song, and a great way to discover the band. Shine Bright Baby has even impressed the likes of Jared from House Of Heroes!

Next we have.......

ICON FOR HIRE!

After looking at the new bands T&N had signed, and after being a little disappointed (Rocky Loves Emily), I saw this band....took a listen...and they are definitely a band to watch! Their music is a little harder than what I usually listen to, but Ariel has an amazing voice, and they are definitely talented! Be sure to keep an eye out for their first album with T&N, dropping summer/fall 2011. While you're at it, get a free downlaod of "Off With Her Head" at their Pure Volume page! Below is their song "Conversation With A Rockstar", an absolutely beautiful acoustic song about selling your soul just for fame. Enjoy!

Well, that's the last of my new bands to watch....let me know if I've missed any by emailing me at lifewithlisap@gmail.com!

Ok, you may have thought that was totally wacky, but that was probably the first Out Of Eden song I heard, and I really liked it. Out Of Eden was a popular Christian R&B group around the mid 2000's. How good were they? Let's find out.

Out Of Eden was band of sisters, Lisa Kimmey, Andrea Kimmey-Baca and Danielle Kimmey. They started out by singing backup vocals for their Mother, who played classical piano on the side. Their stepfather unsuccessfully tried to get them signed by sending video tapes of the girls singing to record labels. But...that's where things get interesting.

Some guy named Toby McKeehan found out about them. He loved their sound, and created a record label for them in order to produce their music. What label was that? Gotee Records! That is definitely impressive.

Out of Eden put out 7 records during their 12 year career. Their first album, "Lovin' The Day", catapulted the sisters into the music industry, and was well received. Their second album released in 1996, "More Than You Know" cemented their status in the CCM industry. The real success came with their fourth album, "This Is Your Life". Released in 2002, this album tied for "Urban Album Of The Year" Dove Award in 2003, "Meditate", a single from the album, won "Urban Recorded Song Of The Year". This album was also nominated for a Stellar Award. Two years went past, and they released my favorite album from them, "Love, Peace, and Happiness". The album and it's contents were nominated for two Dove Awards, but sadly, did not win. "Soldiers" was on this album, and that was the song I mentioned above. Their next to last album was "Hymns", and featured renditions of Church favorites. Their last album was a greatest hits album, released in 2006, entitled, "The Hits".

The group announced they were disbanding in 2006. I can't find any information why, but I'm sure they needed a break!

Out Of Eden was a very successful group. Gotee Records was created because of them, their music was enjoyed by many, and they had a successful career. So if you happen to see "Love, Peace, and Happiness" in your Christian bookstore or on iTunes, snatch it up! It's a fun record with some great lyrics!

Be sure to check out next week's Throwback Thursday. I have a very....shall we say....interesting band for you guys.

Sunday, March 20, 2011

"Whoa....have you seen Anne's shirt?" Kayla said to everyone seated at our table. I watched as all the "popular" kids laughed and snickered. We all looked at Anne, and saw she was wearing a shirt that said, "I <3 Cows", but instead of a heart, a hamburger was there. Jacob laughed. "She is a cow", he said. I felt the aggravation rising up inside me. I had come to this table to sit with my friend Sarah, and all the "Popular" kids had come over to sit. There's Kayla, pretty, talkative...and very flirtatious. To her left is her friend, Nicole. Also pretty, talkative, and...very flirtatious. Next to me are my friends since diaper days, Trevor and Travis. Smitten with the aforementioned girls, but overall, very nice. Then....Jacob. I guess good looking, very egotistical....and well, just grates on me. (You may think I sound rude and snippity, but I assure you, this was their character.)
As they laughed, I started to get very annoyed. Anne was also a friend Trevor, Travis, and I grew up with. She is hilarious, and one of the nicest girls you would ever meet. But she is overweight. This fact doesn't bother me at all, Anne is one of my best friends, and I feel personality and character is more important than looks or weight.

I glared at Jacob. "Don't you think that's a little rude?" Jacob shrugged. "It's true". I saw Kayla and Nicole giggle. Even Travis and Trevor wouldn't say a word. I felt sick. I didn't want to be around these popular kids anymore. Sure, they may be the "it" crowd of youth camp, but were they really worth hanging out with if they made fun of my friend just because she weighed more than one of them did? I didn't think so.

The above story is completely true. It happened last year at youth camp. The names have been changed, but those are the exact words. Now, I don't hate popular people or anything, and even the ones that get made fun of can be really nasty to someone else. I'm ashamed to admit that I've made fun of people before too, and had to ask God's forgiveness, and make it right.

In John 13:34,35 Jesus said: "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another."

Jesus loved everyone, no matter what they looked like. Do you think he would have refused to heal someone just because they weren't pretty enough? He healed Lepers, who were shunned from society because of the horrible disease that ravaged their bodies. Many were missing noses, fingers, toes....etc! Jesus never refused anyone!

So to get to my point....if God is no respecter of persons, (Romans 2:11) why should we be? I am not saying you should love people's sin, and tell them they are fine when they are really going to Hell, but to show them the love of Christ. It shouldn't matter if that kid sitting in the corner is ugly, skinny, fat, pretty, a cutter, etc, they still need to be shown Christ's love. So I want to challenge you to find somebody this week, whether at your school or job, to find someone who is hurting or alone, and simply do something nice for them. It may be just a smile, or a quick hello. But whatever it may be, I'm sure God will use it to help that person.

Friday, March 18, 2011

It seems recently I have been leaving old bands gravitating towards new bands, and I like what I hear! Sure, there's been several misses, but there are many new Christian bands out there that are worth your attention. Let the games begin!

#1: Hyland

Hailing from Minneapolis, MN, this new addition to Tooth & Nail does not disappoint. Their debut EP, "Quotients" was produced by the one and only Ben Kasica, and caught the attention of producer Aaron Sprinkle. Aaron Sprinkle asked if he could personally pitch Hyland to Tooth & Nail, and they soon became part of the Tooth & Nail family. Look for their debut album in Spring 2011, and check out the single, "This Love Is Free" below! If you haven't heard, their gear was recently stolen, and I'm sure they would appreciate if you could give to help cover the cost of replacing it. Donate at their official website here.

#2 The Lost Colors

So, of course anyone who reads this blog knows I LOVE THESE GUYS!! The Lost Colors are a great indie band that released a self titled EP in 2009. You can read their story and my review of that EP here.

#3 Attalus

I found these guys on New Release Tuesday. Their bassist had posted a topic about the band, and thought to myself, "Hey! This sounds like something I might like!" So I checked out their MySpace, and listened to a few songs. I loved them. ALL! Attalus released an EP in December 2010, and they are definitely worth listening to. Their EP is amazing, and can be purchased on iTunes, Zune Marketplace.....anywhere online where great music is sold! I reviewed their EP on NRT, and you can read it here. Just scroll down to shortperson22's review. Be sure to check them out, you won't regret it. Below is an acoustic version of "The Rich and The Poor", one of my favorite Attalus tunes.

Thursday, March 17, 2011

"WHAT?" Capital Lights, you say? Yes, I know, they've only been broken up for about a year. I thought it would be nice to feature a "newer" band.

Capital Lights was a punk rock sort of band, with a sound comparable to Philmont, Hawk Nelson, and FM Static. Comprised of Bryson Phillips on bass guitar and vocals, Brett Admire on guitar, Michael Phillips playing drums, and another guitarist, Jonathan Williams. Formed in 2002 as afterEIGHT, they released a few eps, but not much happened. After several member changes and a complete change of sound, afterEIGHT was signed to Tooth & Nail in 2007, as Capital Lights.

Capital Lights released their only album, "This Is An Outrage" in July of 2008. Produced by Aaron Sprinkle, the 12 song album was received quite well. Jesus Freak Hideout rated the track 4.5 out of 5 stars, and other reviews were positive as well. "Out Of Control" went to #1 on the R&R Christian Rock charts in 2008. They also had a successful tour opening for Hawk Nelson and Run Kid Run. However......

They announced on August 19th, 2009 that they were disbanding. They stated: "We all felt God had different plans for our lives, and it would have been impossible to pursue those plans while continuing with the band." So thus, the end of Capital Lights. However......

There are rumors of a Capital Lights reunion! Apparently, on Christmas Eve 2010, Bryson Phillips SUPPOSEDLY got on a radio show and said there were plans for one last studio album, though they would most likely not tour. Their MySpace is still active, but there is no news about a reunion on it. Their "website" is now a Japanese Largest Lace Reputation in Headhunting Firm. I thought that was pretty funny. Hah.

Capital Lights is greatly missed by many fans. Their fun sound was a perfect addition to Tooth& Nail, and perhaps there will be a reunion. But unfortunately, all we have are rumors.

Saturday, March 12, 2011

"Life In Spite of Me" is Kristen Jane Anderson's story of depression, suicide, and how she overcame it through Christ. I enjoyed this book very much, even though the content is more on the serious side.

Throughout the book, Kristen tells her story of severe depression, of going to psychiatrists and counselors, taking antidepressants, partying, and so forth. But nothing could take away the deep pain inside. One night, she decided to end it all, and laid down on some train tracks. Her suicide attempt was unsuccessful, but now she would have to face life without two very important members of her body. Her legs.

After her suicide attempt, she faced many struggles, and still faced depression. However, she found Christ as a result of this horrible event. I don't want to spoil things for you, but the book has a very happy ending.

Kristen now operates a ministry for hurting, hopeless, lost, suicidal and depressed among us. Her ministry is a miracle in itself, and is called, "Reaching You". You can visit the organization's web page here.

In truth, I had a hard time reading this book, because of personal struggles I have faced in life. Kristen's story encouraged me so much, and I'm glad she decided to write this book. I would not recommend it for a younger audience, simply because one of the struggles Kristen faced was rape, as well as the overall suicide/ depression story line may be too mature for younger tweens.

"Life In Spite Of Me" is one of the best nonfiction books I have ever read. I highly recommend it!

I received this book in exchange for a review. All opinions expressed in this review are solely mine.

Thursday, March 10, 2011

And now it's time for.......THROWBACK THURSDAY, the part of the blog where Lisa comes out and tells you about a former CCM artist who is no longer on the CCM scene. This may seem to be a sad topic, but in reality it's simply a celebration of what their music accomplished. Let's get to the artist!

Already extremely talented, Stacie wrote her first song at the tender age of 6.In 1998, Stacie was signed to ForeFront Records at the age of 12. In her home state of Colorado, she went to a local Christian Festival, "Praise In The Rockies". Somehow, she inadvertently entered a high stake talent competition, and won. A representative from Forefront was there, and promptly signed her.

At 14, her debut album, "Genuine" was released. The album sold over 13,000 copies in the first week, and was the highest debut ever for a female Christian artist, at the time. The hit single from the album, "Don't Look At Me" quickly shot up the charts, and stayed at #1 for 10 consecutive weeks. "Genuine" sold over 500,000 copies, and was certified Gold. Stacie Orrico's career was quickly taking off.

Stacie's most well-known work to date, "Stacie Orrico" was released in 2003, debuting at #67 on the Billboard Top 200 charts. Her unique, distinctive voice really shone on this album. "Stuck" became a top mainstream hit, and was in the Top 5 charts of many countries. "(There's Gotta Be) More To Life" was another hit single from the album in the Christian music industry. During this time, Stacie garnered a large fan base in Japan. "Stacie Orrico" was certified Gold, and was nominated for a Grammy Award in 2004.

However, this is where things started changing. Stacie recorded a new album, "Beautiful Awakening" in 2006, which totally changed the direction of her music. It was still her signature pop style, but this was focused more on the romance aspect of things. The release of "Beautiful Awakening" in the U.S. kept getting delayed, and was only released in Japan and the U.K. She tried to release several singles to radio, but unfortunately, they didn't do well. In 2007, the album was once again postponed, and finally, cancelled. Stacie spoke up that she had left her label, and she was taking a break. Tour dates were cancelled, and she announced she would be spending time in Africa.

In 2008, she started showing up at a few Asian festivals and tours, such as QB Goes Live in Cambodia, Singfest in Singapore, and a small tour in Japan. Also in 2008, a single called, "Knock Em' Out" was leaked on Youtube. A comeback, perhaps? Maybe...I suppose only time will tell.

Friday, March 4, 2011

THIS IS JUST THE EP REVIEW. YOU CAN VIEW THE FULL LENGHTH ALBUM REVIEW BY CLICKING HERE. Thanks!

Anthem Lights is a new pop/rock band recently signed to Reunion Records. The band was formed in 2007, when Alan Powell and Chad Graham joined creative forces to write songs for Chad Graham's solo album. However, as they collaborated, they began to see God's bigger plan. The songs just seemed meant for a group. Soon, Liberty University students Caleb Grimm and Kyle Kupecky joined the band. Their debut EP as well as their forthcoming album (dropping May 2011) was produced by the Write Brothers, aka Seth Moseley and Juan Otero. How does their debut stand out in a industry covered in pop/rock artists? Let's find out.

The EP starts of with the single, "Can't Shut Up". As the track starts off with a neat intro, it gives you a sense of anticipation. Within seconds a fun, catchy vocal and music mix catches your attention. "I had a heartbeat, I was breathing, and I kept going and going without a reason, I was living to just be living, until He really gave me life.", are powerful lyrics that start off the lyrical message. This song is a powerful anthem, about how we "Can't Shut Up" about what God has done for us! "We got to break the silence, we've been quiet for too long" is a true message of many churches and youth groups in this hour. This is a strong song lyrically, as well as having a great pop feel. There is no "lead vocalist" in Anthem Lights, and I find it refreshing to hear different soloists.
"I Wanna Know You Like That" is next, and talks about wanting to give all to God, and to know God like David and other great people of God. "To live, to love, with everything I am, to give it all, I wanna know You like that, to become a man after your heart, and not look back." truly expresses the heart these guys have for the ministry. A song with strong vocals, great message, and fun music, "I Wanna Know You Like That" is sure to become a favorite among pop fans.

We're nearly to the end of the EP, and "Can't Get Over You" slows things down. Is it just me, or does it seem nearly every artist in the business slows things down for the third track? Just something I noticed....anyway, back to the review! This song is a passionate song of thanks to God, with lyrics that speak of God's great love, how He loves when we don't deserve it, and how He's changed our live. The chorus speaks of how after all God has done for us, we can't get over it! It's a beautiful song which is probably my favorite off the EP.

Lastly is "Circles" which has become a favorite among the Rock and Worship Roadshow audience. Another slow tempo song, hits the issue of how we as Christians can go in circles, one minute in, and one minute out. This song really speaks to us, and it challenges us to be committed to Christ, with ALL of our hearts. This is by far the best song on the EP, and if you could only choose one song from this album, it should be this song! Besides the amazing lyrics, Anthem Light's vocal talent really shines through.

This is a strong debut from Anthem Lights, and I can't wait to hear their full album in May. This EP has strong lyrics, good pop music, and talented yet diverse vocals. I kept hearing a voice that slightly reminded me of Billy Goodwin from NewSong, and it turns out it's Caleb Grimm. So if you think you're hearing Billy Goodwin, you're not!

If you like pop music with a bit of a rock edge, Anthem Lights is for you. Their lyrics are strong, and they have some amazing talent. Be sure to pick up the full album in May!

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

About 3 and a half years ago, I started having extreme pain in my feet. The arches of my feet would hurt so bad, I could hardly walk sometimes.

We went to the Podiatrist, and he told me I had flat feet. Basically, I was born with no arch in my foot, and this caused my feet not to be able to support my weight properly. It was a common occurrence in people. The lack of arch in my feet had caused the ligament in my foot to stretch, and that was the cause of the pain. I wore a special aircast for 6 weeks to take the strain off my foot so the ligament could heal.

Several weeks later, I went again to the podiatrist and got fitted for special shoe inserts. I was given a list of rules about how to wear them. No flip flops, no high heels (come on I'm short!), I had to wear them all the time, so on, so forth. If I did not wear them, I would have knee trouble like my mom did.

I wore them. They alleviated the pain slightly, but the inserts were a hard plastic and hurt after standing in them for several hours. I resigned myself to the fact I would have to wear them the rest of my life.

Where was my faith? "I'm called to be a missionary", I thought to myself. "How will I be able to travel all over and walk miles with bad feet?". Oh sure, I prayed that God would heal me, but I suppose I never really had the faith I should have had.

Fast forward three years later, to January 2011. We had our mid term revival, originally scheduled for Sunday through Wednesday. God had other plans, however. One week stretched into two, and two into three. On the Tuesday night of the second week, I had come to church with extremely sore feet. Bro. Switzer mentioned in his sermon about healing. he told stories of a woman healed of cancer, of a baby born with no eyes who after being prayed for, opened it's eyelids to reveal the most beautiful pair of blue eyes he had ever seen. Stories of healings reached my ears. I felt God speak to me that, if I had faith, he would heal me. During the altar call, Bro. Switzer asked everyone who needed a healing to go to the middle aisle and pray. I took my inserts out of my shoes and walked to the middle aisle. Holding my inserts in my hand, I raised my hands to Heaven and began to ask God to heal me. I think I quoted every verse about healing in the Bible, haha. As I was praying, I felt kind of discouraged because no one was praying for me. Immediately I thought of the woman with the issue of blood. She was no doubt stepped on, hit, and cursed at as she crawled to Jesus, desperate for her healing. Matthew 9:22 came to mind, " But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour." I began to pray again, believing like I never had before. I felt someone take my inserts out of my hand, and another person lay hands on my feet.

After I had prayed, I noticed the pain in my feet was gone. I stood up and walked around, my feet did not hurt one bit. I was so excited, and I went to tell my mom that I had thought God healed my feet. I could not speak about it without crying. I believed God had healed me! Afterwards, I got up and looked for my inserts, and found them strewn across a pew several feet away from where I was standing. I thought it was odd, but I figured some kid had been playing with them or something.

Faith without works is dead, so I chose not to wear my inserts the next day. Whenever I had not worn my inserts before, I had pains in my feet. I went all day wednesday with no pain. Thursday, no pain. At the end of church Thursday night, my Dad took up testimonies of what God had done for people. I listened to a few, and knew I needed to testify. I stood up and told the story, and my friend Katherine stood up a few moments later. She said, "I was praying for Lisa, and she had her inserts in her hand. I began to pray that God would heal her, and that he would increase my faith. So I took her inserts and threw them as far as I could."

I believe God honored our combined faith and healed me because of it. So many times we as churches HEAR of miracles, but simply believe them to be things of the past. NO THEY ARE NOT! God still heals and works miracles! God is the same yesterday, today, and forever! he never changes! If he healed the lame, blind, deaf, and dumb in the Bible days, why can't he do it now?! In Exodus 15:26 says, "for I am the LORD that healeth thee." "Healeth" is not past tense. It is present! I still happens! We just don't have the faith to see it happen.

During that revival, there were 19 healings. Nineteen. If that doesn't increase your faith and make you want to praise God, I ask you, what will?

I want to encourage you through this post to have faith to see healings happen. I hope somehow I encouraged you to believe God for miracles. What happened to me can happen to you.

By the way, I have had no pain in my arches since that day. 3 weeks and counting!